Would you replace the axle shaft?

[marc11]

The seal where my right axle shaft slips into the diff is leaking, this means I need to pull the axle. I am thinking I should replace the axle and hub bearing while I am there. The truck has 75k on it and I replaced the left bearing a few months ago. No idea how long these axles and bearing last, but what would you do? FYR, the cost is about $100 for the axle and $100 for the bearing, plus about $25 for the seal and hub nut.

Also, does anyone have a detailed write up about the axle removal, I have a Haynes manual, but think real world details are better.

 

[FordMan016]

sounds like you just need a seal

 

[351rangerxxx]

just the seal unless the shaft is worn.

 

[marc11]

Thanks guys. I have no idea how to tell if the shaft is worn, the CV's do not click so I assume it must be okay. The bearing is okay too, no noise or tire movement when off the ground.

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

The I would just replace the seal. When you remove the axle to replace the seal, check the surface on the shaft that the seal rides, if it is grooved up, that can cause the seal to not seal. Then you would have to replace the shaft. Unless you could get a speedy sleeve for it that is.

 

[marc11]

The I would just replace the seal. When you remove the axle to replace the seal, check the surface on the shaft that the seal rides, if it is grooved up, that can cause the seal to not seal. Then you would have to replace the shaft. Unless you could get a speedy sleeve for it that is.

Thanks for the tips.